Transition zone of varied natural vegetation occupying the boundary between two adjacent and differing plant communities is known as

An ecotone is defined as a boundary transition zone between two adjacent and differing plant communities or ecosystems [2]. It represents an area of tension where species from both communities compete for resources, often resulting in a higher species diversity known as the 'edge effect' [6]. These zones can vary significantly in width, appearing as either a sharp boundary line or a broad area of gradual blending [1]. In contrast, ecological succession refers to the directional process of community replacement over time until a stable climax community is reached [4]. An ecological niche describes the specific functional role or position of a species within its environment. Therefore, the specific term for a transition zone of varied natural vegetation at the boundary of two communities is an ecotone [6].

Sources

1. [1] Environment and Ecology, Majid Hussain (Access publishing 3rd ed.) > Chapter 1: BASIC CONCEPTS OF ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY > Ecotone > p. 12
2. [2] Environment and Ecology, Majid Hussain (Access publishing 3rd ed.) > Chapter 12: Major Crops and Cropping Patterns in India > Biotic: Living > p. 107
3. [6] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ecotone
4. [3] Environment and Ecology, Majid Hussain (Access publishing 3rd ed.) > Chapter 1: BASIC CONCEPTS OF ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY > Ecological Succession > p. 28
5. [4] Environment, Shankar IAS Acedemy .(ed 10th) > Chapter 2: Functions of an Ecosystem > 2.8. ECOLOGICAL SUCCESSION > p. 21
6. [5] Environment and Ecology, Majid Hussain (Access publishing 3rd ed.) > Chapter 12: Major Crops and Cropping Patterns in India > Biotic: Living > p. 102